Job Title: Assistant Scenic Artist
Contract Dates: February 9, 2026 - Dec. 6, 2026
Reports to: Technical Director
FLSA Status: Seasonal Full Time, Salaried Exempt
Compensation Rate: $720/wk
Benefits: Housing, Medical and Supplemental Insurances, 401k, PTO Accrual, Company Recognized Holidays that fall within contract, Barter Partnership Programs + Discounts
Position Summary
Barter Theatre seeks an Assistant Scenic Artist to be a part of the paint shop team. This position works with the Scenic Charge Artist, while reporting to the Technical Director, and is responsible for completing painted and sculpted effects of the scenery.
Responsibilities
Apply basic skills and techniques commonly required from a Scenic Artist. Advanced areas of skill welcome
Translate designer paint elevations, renderings and samples into accurate full-sized product
Take scenic painting lead on our Barter Players productions, for young audiences
Assist with load-ins, touch-ups, and ongoing scenery maintenance
Assist with shop maintenance and organization
Work independently in a fast paced professional environment and complete tasks in a timely manner
Participate in all scheduled paint calls, arriving on time and ready to work.
Maintain brushes, tools, and paint supplies in good condition.
Perform moderately heavy lifting, ladder work, and other physical tasks for long hours as required.
Qualification + Experience
BA or BFA in Theatre or Fine Arts with an emphasis in painting OR a minimum of 2 years professional experience.
Familiarity with safe handling of paints, solvents, and other materials.
Proficiency in common scenic painting techniques, with strong color-matching skills.
Organizational Overview
Currently celebrating its 92nd year, Barter Theatre is a repertory company of resident artists dedicated to serving others by creating world-class theater in the heart of Appalachia. Barter+rsquo;s vision is to maintain a sustainable model of producing world-class theater that entertains, engages, and connects artists and audience, while reflecting the inherently Appalachian values of hard work, generosity, service, and story. Barter produces musicals, classic plays, and new work March-December including the nationally renowned initiatives Appalachian Festival of Plays and Playwrights and Black Stories Black Voices.
Equal Employment Opportunity Commitment
Equal employment opportunity and an inclusive and representative staff are fundamental at Barter Theater. Our employment and promotional opportunities are based upon individual capabilities and qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation/preference, political position, age, national origin, marital status, citizenship, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic as established under law.
To Apply
To apply for this position, please submit a current resume, cover letter, and three references to Scenic Charge Artist, Stacie Storrie, SStorrie@bartertheatre.com.